David Aebischer didn't look sharp in Game 1 against the Sharks, especially in his side-to-side movement.

All season long, David Aebischer has calmly deflected questions about replacing legendary goalie Patrick Roy about as well as the Swiss goalie has turned aside shots during an impressive campaign.

While the 26-year-old has said he just wanted to play his game, his 32-19-9 record, 2.09 goals-against average (ninth-best in the NHL), .924 save percentage (sixth best) and four shutouts were the most convincing statements that Aebischer was a suitable heir to St. Patrick.

The organization also stood confidently behind Aebischer in his first season as the team's starter. As Avalanche head coach Tony Granato said, "We just want David Aebischer to be David Aebischer and we feel that will be good enough."